One of the ironies of the current economic situation is that slow economies around the world have pushed the price of oil lower, and consequently with it, the future price of gasoline. The bad news about European gross domestic product (GDP) knocked crude well below $94. News that shale oil will substantially increase global supply in the next five years also added pressure.
Low gasoline prices are supposed to help consumer spending, which many economists argue is two-thirds of GDP. If that is so, the consumer’s discretionary income will continue to rise, at least among those who have cars.
The national average price of a gallon of regular was only $3.588 yesterday, according to the AAA Fuel Gauge. That compared with $3.727 a year ago. With the exception of Hawaii, Alaska and California, no other state has an average price above $4.
The reasons for oil prices to continue to drop grow almost every day.
Credit Card Companies Are Doing Something Nuts
Credit card companies are at war. The biggest issuers are handing out free rewards and benefits to win the best customers.
It’s possible to find cards paying unlimited 1.5%, 2%, and even more today. That’s free money for qualified borrowers, and the type of thing that would be crazy to pass up. Those rewards can add up to thousands of dollars every year in free money, and include other benefits as well.
We’ve assembled some of the best credit cards for users today. Don’t miss these offers because they won’t be this good forever.
Flywheel Publishing has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Flywheel Publishing and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.
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